Another GOP Incumbent Leaving W.Va. Senate

At least three of the seven GOP incumbents up for re-election in the state Senate next year won't be seeking another term.

The latest is Sen. John Yoder, who said today that he instead plans to run for circuit judge in his Jefferson County district.

Yoder hopes to succeed a retiring Judge Thomas Steptoe in the 23rd Judicial District. Yoder's resume includes time as a trial-level judge in Kansas in the late 1970s, and as a staffer at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Sen. Andy McKenzie, R-Ohio, recently announced his 2008 bid for mayor of Wheeling. Sen. Vic Sprouse, R-Kanawha, said earlier this year that he would not run for another term.

Two additional GOP senators up next year have also expressed interest in seeking other posts.

At least 2 of the 10 Democrats up in 2008 have ruled out another run as well. Sen. Billy Wayne Bailey, D-Wyoming, is instead vying for secretary of state while Sen. Jon Blair Hunter, D-Monongalia, is retiring.

Republicans hold 11 of 34 seats in the state Senate.